Facilities: Athletics facilities such as Bell Gymnasium and the baseball complex are risk management issues. The locker rooms in the Dr. William Exum Center have some doors that do not lock, and the building is not cleaned and maintained properly.

Strategic Direction: While there is a one-page document, entitled Our Strategic Plan it does not include vision and mission statements, core values, objectives, strategies, tactics and metrics. It does not demonstrate an alignment with the University's Strategic Plan Vision 2025.

Fundraising Efforts: Athletics fundraising is at best is fragmented. There is no professional development/training on friend, fan and fundraising for the head coaches. A unified and strategic approach is needed to help support the athletics program's many needs.

Gender Equity/Inclusion: The athletics program does not currently have a formal written Gender Equity Plan. The Equity in Athletics Disclosure Act (EADA) Reports for several years are incomplete. There are numerous gender equity issues specific to athletic participation, athletics scholarships number of assistant coaches, compensation of coaches critical to offering a gender equitable athletics program.

Lack of Policies and Procedures: The athletics program has limited written policies with no consolidated Policies and Procedures Manual to address standard operating procedures and policies. The Coaches Compliance Handout is outdated.

Student-Athlete Support Services: There is a significant gap in support for student-athletes' nutritional needs, academic support needs and mental health needs.

Branding & Marketing: A partnership with Kentucky State's Division of Marketing can help ensure the brand, message and reputation for the athletics program are presented in a clear and creative way. A winning athletics program is an effective and efficient way to market the University to prospective students. Many colleges and universities have developed revenue sources by licensing their athletic trademarks for apparel and hard goods and target four discrete market segments: 1) Alumni; 2) Students; 3) Local/University Community and 4) National Affinity Groups.

Revenue Generation: A more coordinated and professional approach to revenue generation is needed. Ensuring a dedicated staff role within the Office of Institutional Advancement and External Relations to work in partnership with the Athletics Director to support the athletics program by engaging alumni, parents and friends will be crucial to generating philanthropic support and corporate sponsorship/partner support.

Facility Upgrades: Investing in upgrading all the athletics facilities is paramount to the success of the program. The baseball complex, Bell Gymnasium and the Dr. William Exum Center needed immediate attention. Athletics facilities should be a top priority to ensure the venues are safe, clean and functional spaces. Topflight athletics and recreational facilities are increasingly important for colleges and universities as they compete for all prospective students.

Local Community and State Legislative Support: Cultivating relationships in the Frankfort community and Kentucky State government is important for the athletics